PAST: I have loved animals all my life from my earliest memory to today. My first pet was your standard goldfish which led me to a giant fish tank. Unfortunately one day I was so excited about getting a new fish that I put it in the aquarium before it’s time. This caused a massive disgusting fish sickness called “Ick” in which many of my fish lost eyes and other body parts before rotting away. I learned my lesson but not before the death of many of my fish. Yet fish were not the true pet I desired it was a dog.
I wanted a dog so badly that I would take my neighbors/cousins dog for a walk almost everyday. Her name was Suzie and she was one of the laziest Shih Tzu’s in the world so it was a bit of challenge to take her for walk. I guess my persistence paid off because at 14 years old my parents got me “Macho” a miniature poodle with large bite for those he didn’t like. Macho would frequently sneak out of the house to meet his girlfriend from up the block. Macho lived up to his name as he would scare even a Sheep Dog away. He even got his neck stuck in a fence and had to be rescued by the local fire department. For all his mischief Macho was a great lovable dog in his youth. He lived a long life but starting having seizures which eventually led to his death.
The next dog I had was “Snowflake” a beautiful lovable Pomeranian who had brought joy to me, my wife and children for over 16 years. Unlike “Macho” “Snowflake” hardly got in trouble except if you consider barking for food every time you ate. I know there are many more memories I will share about “Snowflake” later but seeing that she has just passed away today I’m afraid the pain is too much at this time for me to reflect.
Today I also own “Sidney” a combination Maltese and Shih Tzu. Sidney came from an abusive family that never took her for a walk. He was the first dog I met that didn’t have any self confidence. At first Sidney would only follow my wife but overtime has opened up to all of us (although he still favors my wife). Sidney also has become more playful and happier over time and is well trained.
PRESENT
Today I drove to work through “the blizzard”. Although the roads are rough it was not the disaster the media led us to believe.
Today was also the day our beloved dog “Snowflake” passed on. It was quite difficult for me not only because I loved this dog but because we felt she needed to put to sleep. She battled for over 6 months with Cancer but then her trachea collapsed. Snowflake couldn’t walk, eat, drink and even had difficulty breathing. After consultation with friends, two vets and my Rabbi I decided that this was the right decision. It has only been a few hours since that decision and I still shed many tears but believe it was the right thing to do for her.
After the decision I went for my physical and found out that I’m still alive although I felt a bit empty inside. I also went to the pet store and held a Ferret.
FUTURE
I plan to look for a new dog(s) not to replace “Snowflake” but to add a bit more happiness to our empty feeling house. I actually am also considering buying a Ferret.